Data-Handling in Biomedical Science

Packed with worked examples and problems, this book will help the reader improve their confidence and skill in data-handling. The mathematical methods needed for problem-solving are described in the first part of the book, with chapters covering topics such as indices, graphs and logarithms. The following eight chapters explore data-handling in different areas of microbiology and biochemistry including microbial growth, enzymes and radioactivity. Each chapter is fully illustrated with worked examples that provide a step-by-step guide to the solution of the most common problems. Over 30 exercises, ranging in difficulty and length, allow you to practise your skills and are accompanied by a full set of hints and solutions.

Acknowledgements; Introduction; Abbreviations and Système International; How important is maths in data-handling?; 1. Numbers and indices; 2. A sense of proportion; 3. Graphs; 4. Algebra; 5. Logarithms; 6. Simple statistics; 7. Preparing solutions and media; 8. Growth in batch cultures; 9. Growth in continuous culture; 10. Enzymes; 11. Spectrophotometry; 12. Energy metabolism; 13. Radioactivity; 14. Microbial genetics; 15. Problems; 16. Advice and hints; 17. Answers; Conclusion; Index.

This guide to solving numerical problems in the biological sciences is packed with worked examples to guide the reader through the most common calculations. It includes explanations of the necessary simple mathematical methods and a lengthy series of related exercises with an accompanying set of hints and full solutions.

Peter White taught practical classes and tutorials in microbiology for over 30 years during his time as a Lecturer and Senior Lecturer at Sheffield University. His research interests include microbial drug-resistance, biochemistry of bacterial walls and metabolism of members of the genus Bacillus. He is a member of the Society for General Microbiology and a past member of the Biochemical Society and the American Society for Microbiology.